CAYMAN ISLANDS

The option of going for a big bells-and-whistles resort or a condo on Grand Cayman or going barefoot-simple on its two sister islands, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.

An easy trip—just an hour from Miami—to all three islands.

A safe and civilized retreat in a prosperous British Overseas Territory, with great beaches and some of the world’s best diving.

Many existing properties that were thoroughly and tastefully remodeled after 2004’s Hurricane Ivan and several completely new ones

Grand Cayman’s famous Seven Mile Beach and the island’s nearby capital, George Town—full of great shopping, dining and outdoor activities (including the world’s second-biggest skateboard park).

WHEN TO GO

High season is from December to April. You’ll find the best bargains from early May through July (before the start of the rainy season, which lasts through October) and in November.

WHAT TO PACK

Bathing suits, polarized sunglasses, sunblock, camera, U.S. passport, binoculars (if you’re a birder). For evenings, "smart casual" clothing; a small number of the fancier restaurants request that men wear jackets at dinner.

The Caymans have some of the Caribbean’s least-restrictive marriage requirements—you can even hop off a cruise ship and tie the knot the same day. You’ll need to head to the Office of the Deputy Chief Secretary in George Town or the District Commissioner’s Office on Cayman Brac to apply for a nonresident marriage license (US$200). To get it you’ll need your passport, proof of marital status (including the divorce decree or death certificate if you’re divorced or widowed) and a Cayman Islands immigration card (which you receive on your flight in) or a cruise embarkation/disembarkation card. You must also get a Marriage Officer to assist with the ceremony, and you’ll have to round up two witnesses for the ceremony. Visit gov.ky for a list of Marriage Officers. For more information, call the Deputy Chief Secretary’s Office at 345-949-7900.